James Cook
Directions for Navigating on Part of the South Coast of Newfoundland, with a Chart Thereof, Including the Islands of St. Peter's and Miquelon
And a Particular Account of the Bays, Harbours, Rocks, Land-marks, Depths of Water, Latitudes, Bearings, and Distances from Place to Place, the Setting of the Currents, and Flowing of the Tides, &c., from an Actual Survey, Taken by Order of Commodore Pallisser, Governor of Newfoundland, Labradore, &c.
"Directions for Navigating on Part of the South Coast of Newfoundland, with…" by James Cook is a navigational manual written in the mid-18th century. This book serves as a detailed guide for sailors, covering essential information about the bays, harbors, rocks, landmarks, and various navigational information crucial for safe passage along the south coast of Newfoundland and the adjacent islands of St. Pierre and Miquelon. The content of the book primarily consists of a practical account of navigation in this coastal region, including precise directions for entering and anchoring at various harbors, descriptions of significant geographical features, hazards, and the nature of the underwater terrain. Cook meticulously documents the depths of water, tidal flows, and currents, aiming to aid fishermen and mariners in navigating the often treacherous waters of this area. This document not only showcases the geographical understanding of the time but also reflects the early surveying efforts in maritime navigation.